H.E. Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani’s book, As Seen, Read, and Lived. Qatar Through My Eyes. History, People, and Sovereigns, was launched at the New Delhi World Book Fair on Wednesday in Malayalam and English.
The book documents Qatar’s history with rare photos and records, covering events from his grand grandparents’ time to today. Sheikh Faisal has witnessed the leadership of six out of Qatar’s eight rulers. It explores key milestones, tracing Qatar’s transformation from a geographical concept to an independent state with a unique culture and significant regional and global influence under H.H. Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani.
The book highlights Qatar’s close ties with India, reflecting on their diplomatic and trade relations over decades. It also documents Qatari-Indian history, mentioning archaeological findings that show links to ancient civilizations like Mesopotamia, the Indus Valley, and Indian cultures.
Published by Hamad Bin Khalifa University Publishing House, the book includes chapters on Qatar’s beginnings, the ruling family, culture, hardship years, the Qatar miracle, steadfastness, tests, inspiring Qatari women, and its lasting legacy. It also describes Qatar’s long maritime trade history with India, where traditional wooden dhows facilitated commerce. The book is available in Arabic, English, and Malayalam, with upcoming editions in Hindi, French, Spanish, German, Turkish, and Chinese.
Speaking at the launch, Sheikh Faisal said he aimed to present Qatar’s history with reliable sources, sharing stories he heard, events he witnessed, and experiences from the Majlis about Qatar’s people and rulers. He noted that every nation has defining moments, and Qatar’s history is full of remarkable events and inspiring stories. The book answers questions about Qatar’s soft power, diplomacy, and its ability to lead despite demographic and geographic challenges.
The book chronicles Qatar’s evolution from desert life and pearl diving to the discovery of oil and its economic rise. It details Qatar’s transition into a knowledge-based economy, emphasizing digital innovation. It also highlights Qatar’s global role as a peace mediator, development partner, and humanitarian leader. The book conveys a message to future generations that a nation’s greatness lies not in its size but in the unity of its people and the strength of its vision and leadership.
